Fuses / GPS

[Tim M]

I'm in the stages of wiring my boat so I can use GPS/depth finder etc.
I need some help with the fuses; what size fuse should I be using for various pieces of equptment?
I have just put in two 12v sockets, and nav lights. I will be adding GPS etc later on.
Is there an equation or something I can use???

On the issue of GPS, I am considering buying a "Hummingbird Matrix 20" which is a combined GPS and fish finder. Does anyone have an experiance of this piece of kit, and reliability etc? Here are some details on ebay: http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.d...485395282&rd=1

[Wayne Rogers]

I should use about a 5 amp fuse better to use a lower rating than higher.As we are on each others door steps we should get together for a cruise sometime. Just fitting my new Rib out should be finished by next week-end.

[DJL]

Good evening

Most GPS/depth sounders etc will quote the power they draw, much like a TV/Toaster etc.. I have wired my GPS and depth sounder to the same fuse, they draw 0.15A and 1A respectively, and I therefore am using a 1.5A fuse.

My navlights (three 25w bulbs) draw 6.25A and I use a 10amp fuse.

Basically select a fuse rating slightly higher than the load its supplying.

Also make sure that you keep electronics devices wired separately from each other. If your VHF blows up you don't want it to take your GPS and navlights with it.

Power (Watts) / 12 (Volts) = Current (Amps)

[ashbypower]

Originally Posted by DJL

Good evening

Most GPS/depth sounders etc will quote the power they draw, much like a TV/Toaster etc.. I have wired my GPS and depth sounder to the same fuse, they draw 0.15A and 1A respectively, and I therefore am using a 1.5A fuse.

My navlights (three 25w bulbs) draw 6.25A and I use a 10amp fuse.

Basically select a fuse rating slightly higher than the load its supplying.

Also make sure that you keep electronics devices wired separately from each other. If your VHF blows up you don't want it to take your GPS and navlights with it.

Power (Watts) / 12 (Volts) = Current (Amps)

Hi, Agree with all DJL say's Do however keep seperate supplies for VHF and GPS, you could get mutual interferance. Also do remember that the VHF takes more current on Transmit than on recieve and that 25 Watts RF does not equate to the formula above.

Brian

[Tim M]

Wayne, you should try and come to the Lowestoft air festival tomorrow! You could launch at Southwold....
I'll be there, so if you do come, pop over and say hi - I've got a RIBnet burgee so you'll know which one's me!